Will “Spider-Verse” Swing Onto Disney+? The Web of Streaming Rights, Unraveled!

The burning question on every animation aficionado’s mind: will the visually stunning, critically acclaimed “Spider-Verse” movies ever grace the digital shelves of Disney+? The short answer is: it’s complicated, and currently, unlikely, at least in the immediate future. Due to a complex web of distribution rights and pre-existing deals between Sony Pictures (the owner of the Spider-Man film rights) and other streaming services, the “Spider-Verse” films are primarily associated with Netflix and Starz. Getting them onto Disney+ would require significant negotiation and a hefty price tag. But let’s dive deeper into the intricate deal, why it’s that way, and what future possibilities might exist.

Understanding the Tangled Web: Sony, Disney, and Streaming Rights

The core issue preventing a “Spider-Verse” takeover on Disney+ is the simple fact that Sony Pictures retains ownership of the Spider-Man film rights, despite the character’s integral role in the Marvel comic universe owned by Disney. This historical arrangement, forged in the late 1990s, predates Disney’s acquisition of Marvel Entertainment. Sony’s “Spider-Verse” franchise, encompassing “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” (2018) and “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” (2023), has been a massive success for the studio, both critically and commercially.

Consequently, Sony is in the driver’s seat when it comes to distributing these films. They have licensing agreements with various streaming services, including Netflix and Starz, which hold the initial streaming rights to these films after their theatrical runs and physical media releases. Disney+ typically features films from Marvel Studios, Pixar, Walt Disney Animation Studios, and Lucasfilm, all subsidiaries of the Walt Disney Company. The “Spider-Verse” movies, being outside of this umbrella, face a significantly higher barrier to entry.

The Netflix and Starz Deals: A Streaming Tango

The deal between Sony and Netflix is particularly noteworthy. Netflix secured a “first look” agreement for Sony’s theatrical releases, meaning they have the initial option to license these films for streaming after their theatrical and home entertainment windows. “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” was on Netflix for a period. “Across the Spider-Verse” premiered on Netflix in the US in September 2023 and is currently available to stream, making it a major player in the streaming rights landscape for the franchise. Starz also holds certain rights to Sony’s theatrical releases.

This creates a situation where Disney would need to negotiate with both Sony and potentially Netflix and Starz to bring the “Spider-Verse” films to Disney+. Given the value and popularity of these movies, such negotiations would likely be complex and expensive.

A Glimmer of Hope? The Disney-Sony Spider-Man Arrangement

While the “Spider-Verse” situation appears bleak for Disney+ hopefuls, there’s a separate arrangement that provides a sliver of optimism. The groundbreaking deal that allows Spider-Man to appear in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) – in films like “Captain America: Civil War,” “Spider-Man: Homecoming,” “Spider-Man: Far From Home,” and “Spider-Man: No Way Home” – demonstrates a willingness for collaboration between Sony and Disney.

This collaboration, however, pertains specifically to live-action Spider-Man appearances within the MCU. It doesn’t automatically extend to Sony’s animated “Spider-Verse” franchise. However, the existence of this partnership proves that Disney and Sony can find common ground and negotiate mutually beneficial agreements.

Future Considerations: Potential for Change

The streaming landscape is ever-evolving. Contracts expire, and priorities shift. As the current licensing agreements between Sony and Netflix/Starz conclude, the possibility of Disney+ acquiring the streaming rights to the “Spider-Verse” films increases. This would require Disney to offer a compelling deal to Sony, potentially one that aligns with Sony’s overall streaming strategy.

Moreover, the immense popularity of the “Spider-Verse” movies might incentivize Disney to pursue the acquisition more aggressively. The addition of these critically acclaimed and visually innovative films would undoubtedly attract a larger audience to Disney+. The ultimate decision will depend on the financial considerations, the strategic objectives of both companies, and the evolving dynamics of the streaming wars.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About “Spider-Verse” and Disney+

Here are some frequently asked questions to address the common curiosities surrounding the availability of the Spider-Verse films on Disney+:

1. Is “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” currently available on Disney+?

No, “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” is not currently available on Disney+. Its streaming rights are primarily held by Netflix.

2. Will “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” ever be on Disney+?

It’s possible in the future, but not currently planned. The current distribution rights lie with Netflix.

3. Why aren’t the “Spider-Verse” movies on Disney+ if Disney owns Marvel?

Because Sony Pictures owns the film rights to Spider-Man, not Disney. This includes the animated “Spider-Verse” films.

4. Could Disney buy the Spider-Man film rights from Sony?

While theoretically possible, it’s highly unlikely in the near future. Sony derives significant revenue from the Spider-Man franchise and is unlikely to relinquish ownership.

5. Does the agreement allowing Spider-Man in the MCU mean “Spider-Verse” will come to Disney+?

No. That agreement covers the live-action Spider-Man character appearing in MCU films. It doesn’t automatically extend to Sony’s animated “Spider-Verse” franchise. However, it sets a precedent for negotiation between the two studios.

6. Where can I currently watch “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” and “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse”?

Currently, “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” is on Netflix. Streaming availability can change, so check your local listings for the most up-to-date information. You can also rent or purchase the film on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, and Apple TV.

7. What is the “first look” agreement between Sony and Netflix?

The “first look” agreement gives Netflix the first opportunity to license Sony’s theatrical releases for streaming after their theatrical and home entertainment windows.

8. Are there any Marvel animated movies already on Disney+ that are not part of the MCU?

Yes, Disney+ does host various animated Marvel series and films that are not directly tied to the MCU, such as “X-Men ’97,” “What If…?” (though loosely connected), and older animated series. However, they are produced or co-produced by Marvel Studios/Disney.

9. How do streaming rights deals typically work for major movies?

Major movie studios usually enter into agreements with various streaming services to license their content for a specific period. These deals can be exclusive or non-exclusive, and the terms are negotiated on a film-by-film or multi-film basis. Typically, there’s a theatrical release, followed by home video sales/rentals, and then a streaming release.

10. If Disney can’t get the “Spider-Verse” movies, could they create their own animated Spider-Man series?

Yes, Disney could create their own animated Spider-Man series. In fact, they have already done so with series like “Spider-Man” (2017-2020). However, the distinctive style and acclaim of the “Spider-Verse” films make it challenging to replicate their success.

11. Does the success of the “Spider-Verse” films impact Disney’s desire to get them on Disney+?

Absolutely. The critical acclaim and massive box office success of the “Spider-Verse” films make them a highly desirable asset for any streaming service, including Disney+. This certainly increases the incentive for Disney to pursue their acquisition.

12. What are the chances of a future “Spider-Verse” movie being a Disney+ exclusive?

Extremely slim, almost impossible under the current agreements. Since Sony owns the franchise and has successful partnerships with other streaming services, it’s highly unlikely they would relinquish control and make a future film a Disney+ exclusive. A shared release, after Sony had released on their preferred platforms, would be more realistic.

In conclusion, while the prospect of seeing Miles Morales swing onto Disney+ faces significant hurdles, the ever-changing landscape of the streaming world and the enduring appeal of the “Spider-Verse” leave the door ajar for potential future partnerships. Only time will tell if Disney can navigate the web of streaming rights and bring these animated masterpieces to its platform.